ES2959945T3 - A lighting module, a lighting system and a lighting method - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention provides a lighting module (100) comprising a plurality of first light sources (101) configured to emit a first light (102) in a first predetermined direction, and at least one second light source (103) configured to emit a second light (104). The lighting module (100) further comprises a light guide (105) comprising at least one light coupling portion (106) for coupling at least part of the second light (104) to the light guide (105), and a plurality of light decoupling portions (107) for coupling at least part of the second light (104) outside the light guide (105). The light guide (105) is arranged to guide the second light (104) coupled to the light guide (105) into at least one input light coupling portion (106) through total internal reflection (108). towards the plurality of exit lights. -coupling portions (107) to generate uncoupled light in a second predetermined direction. The light guide (105) is mechanically coupled and extends along the plurality of first light sources (101). The light decoupling portions (107) cover a first area (109) larger than a second area (110) covered by the plurality of first light sources (101). A total luminous flux generated by at least one second light source (103) is less than a total luminous flux generated by the plurality of first light sources (101). The first default address and the second default address at least partially overlap. (Automatic translation with Google Translate, without legal value)

Description

DESCRIPTION

A lighting module, a lighting system and a lighting method

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a lighting module, a lighting system comprising the lighting module and a lighting method using the lighting system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Patent US2014/0104867 discloses an LED lamp comprising a light-emitting diode (LED) strip and a cylindrical light guide body that is connected to the LED strip. The light emitted from the LED strip radiates into the light guide body and exits through the surface of the light guide body. LED lamp provides high quality light at high intensities, but has the disadvantage that it cannot provide high quality light at low intensities.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a lighting module that allows high quality light to be provided at both high and low intensities. For example, the invention describes a strip with solid state light sources that provides high quality light at high and very low intensities.

The present invention discloses a lighting module according to independent claim 1. The dependent claims define preferred embodiments.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a lighting module comprising a plurality of first light sources, at least one second light source, and a light guide. The plurality of first light sources emit a first light in a first predetermined direction. The at least one second light source emits a second light. The light guide comprises at least one light coupling part for coupling at least part of the second light to the light guide, a plurality of light decoupling parts for decoupling at least part of the second light from the light guide . The light guide is arranged to guide the second light coupled in the light guide in at least one light coupling part through total internal reflection to the plurality of light decoupling parts to generate decoupled light in a second direction. default. The light guide is mechanically coupled and extends across the plurality of first light sources. The light decoupling portions together cover a first area larger than a second area covered by the plurality of first light sources. The total luminous flux generated by the at least one second light source is less than a total luminous flux generated by the plurality of the first light sources. The first default address and the second default address at least partially overlap.

Therefore, the invention provides a lighting module, such as, for example, a strip with a plurality of LEDs, which is capable of providing high quality light at both high and low intensities. The reason is that, instead of a strip with a plurality of light sources, a plurality of first light sources and at least one second light source are used in combination with a light guide. The plurality of first light sources provides high quality first light at high intensities in a predetermined first direction. The at least one second light source provides a second light, which at least part of the second light is ultimately decoupled from the light guide at the light decoupling portions extending along the plurality of first light sources. at a second predetermined address. The total luminous flux generated by the at least one second light source is less than the total luminous flux generated by the plurality of first light sources. The first default address and the second default address at least partially overlap. The effect is that the second light source provides high quality light at low intensities without requiring attenuation of the plurality of first light sources to a low intensity.

The solution proposed in Patent US2014/0104867 is unable to provide high quality light at both high and low intensities. To obtain low intensities, the LEDs of the lighting device disclosed in US2014/0104867 need to be dimmed, for example, below 15% of the total light output using pulse width modulation (PWM). .When the LEDs are dimmed to such a low total light output, the light output of the LEDs is not stable. For example, flickering occurs due to a small duty cycle of the current through the LEDs. The effects of such unstable emission can be perceived by the human eye and, therefore, is unwanted.

In one embodiment, the lighting module satisfies the equation in which the first term I2/E2 is greater than the second term I1/E1. I1 is the number of coupled photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources and coupled into the light guide. 12 is the number of coupled photons emitted by the at least one second light source and which couple into the light guide. E1 is the number of photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources. E2 is the number of photons emitted by the at least one second light source. Therefore, the fraction of second light that is coupled into the light guide is greater than the fraction of first light that is coupled into the light guide. The effect obtained is that it further improves the quality of light at both high and low intensities and provides a highly efficient lighting module. The reason is that light that is not coupled into the light guide results in higher efficiency compared to light that is coupled into the light guide. This is because there will be no or less light loss, for example due to light absorption by the light guide. Therefore, the plurality of first light sources provides high quality first light at high intensities and with high efficiency. The at least one second light source provides a high quality second light at low intensities. At low light levels, individual LEDs become more visible compared to LEDs at high light levels. The visibility of the individual LEDs, which provides a so-called unwanted spot appearance, is reduced, because the light is coupled into the light guide and through total internal reflection is guided to the plurality of light decoupling parts . Because the light decoupling portions cover a larger first area than a second area covered by the first light sources, the visibility of the individual LEDs is reduced and the so-called unwanted speck appearance is reduced. The plurality of first light sources may be carried by a first carrier. The first carrier may be a substrate, such as a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB may comprise a sheet. The at least second light sources may be carried by a second carrier. The second carrier may be a substrate, such as a printed circuit board. The PCB can be a rigid substrate. The plurality of first light sources and the at least one second light source may be placed on the same common carrier. The common carrier may be bent at at least one end such that the plurality of first light sources and at least one second light source extend at a non-zero angle. The plurality of first LEDs and the at least one second LED may also be placed in parallel with respect to each other. The light guide may be formed at a non-zero angle near the at least one second light source to allow the second light to engage the light guide. The light guide may also comprise optics, such as, for example, a mirror or a refractive optical element near the at least one second light source to allow the second light to couple to the light guide.

In one embodiment, the ratio of the first term I2/E2 to the second term I1/E1 is at least 3. More preferably, the ratio of the first term I2/E2 to the second term I1/E1 is at least 5. More preferably, the ratio of the first term 12/E2 to the second term I1/E1 is at least 7. The effect obtained is that it further improves the quality of light at both high and low intensities and provides a lighting module even more efficient. The reason is that light that is not coupled into the light guide results in higher efficiency compared to light that is coupled into the light guide. This is because there will be no or less light loss, for example due to light absorption by the light guide. Therefore, the plurality of first light sources provides high quality first light at high intensities and with high efficiency. The at least one second light source provides a high quality second light at low intensities. At low light levels, individual LEDs become more visible compared to LEDs at high light levels. The visibility of the individual LEDs, which provides a so-called unwanted spot appearance, is reduced, because the light is coupled into the light guide and through total internal reflection is guided to the plurality of light decoupling parts . Because the light decoupling portions cover a larger first area than a second area covered by the first light sources, the visibility of the individual LEDs is reduced and the so-called unwanted speck appearance is reduced. The suggested equation and ratio of the first term provides a lighting module with optical efficiency and good speckle reduction, i.e. a less speckled appearance.

In one embodiment, the plurality of first light sources are arranged to emit the first light in a beam. The light guide is arranged in the beam path. The second term I1/E1 is 0.1 or less. More preferably, the second term 11/E1 is 0.07 or less. More preferably, the second term I1/E1 is 0.05 or less. The effect obtained is that it further improves the quality of light at both high and low intensities and provides a highly efficient lighting module. The reason is that light that is not coupled into the light guide results in higher efficiency compared to light that is coupled into the light guide. This is because there will be no or less light loss, for example due to light absorption by the light guide. Therefore, the plurality of first light sources provides high quality first light at high intensities and with high efficiency. The suggested equation and ratio of the second term provides a lighting module with optical efficiency and good reduction of smearing, that is, the stained appearance.

The Ei1:E1 ratio is 80% or less. Ei1 is the number of photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources and incident on the light guide. E1 is the number of photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources. More preferably, the Ei1:E1 ratio is 60% or less. Most preferably, the Ei1:E1 ratio is 40% or less. The effect obtained is that it further improves the quality of light at both high and low intensities and provides a highly efficient lighting module. The reason is that first light that hits the light guide is subject to light losses due to absorption or reflection when the light is transmitted through the light guide. Light that does not hit the light guide does not suffer these light losses. Therefore, a greater amount of first light that does not hit the light guide results in a lighting module with greater efficiency.

In one embodiment, the second distance (D2) between the light guide and the plurality of first light sources is in the range of 1 to 20 mm. More preferably, the second distance (D2) between the light guide and the plurality of first light sources is in the range of 1 to 15 mm. Most preferably, the second distance (D2) between the light guide and the plurality of first light sources is in the range of 1 to 10 mm. For example, the second distance (D2) between the light guide and the plurality of first light sources is 2 mm. The effect obtained is that the first light and the second light exit the lighting module from the same surface. The reason is that the position of the plurality of first light sources is close to the position of the light decoupling parts of the light guide. The light sources may be solid state light sources, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) or laser diodes. The light guide may be placed on top of the light emitting area of more than 90% of the plurality of first light sources. The light guide may also not be arranged on top of the light emission area of the plurality of first light sources, but adjacent to the light emission area of the plurality of first light sources. For example, the plurality of light sources comprises one hundred LEDs and the light guide may be placed on top of the light emitting area ninety-five LEDs or ninety-nine LEDs. The first distance (D1) between the light guide and the at least one second light source may be in the range of 0.1 to 20 mm. More preferably, the first distance (D1) between the light guide and the at least one second source may be in the range of 0.1 to 15 mm. Most preferably, the first distance (D1) between the light guide and the at least one second light source may be in the range of 0.1 to 10 mm. For example, the first distance (D2) between the light guide and the at least one second light source is 0.2 mm.

In one embodiment, the light guide is elongated and has a length L, a width W and a height H. Preferably, the length L is at least 30 times the width W and the length L is at least 50 times the height H. More preferably, the length L is at least 60 times the width W and the length L is at least 70 times the height H. Most preferably, the length L is at least 90 times the width W and the length L is at least 90 times the height H. The effect obtained is that the suggested dimensions result in a flexible and linear lighting module that is desired in various lighting applications, such as cove and accent lighting. The height H of the light guide is preferably less than 20 mm. More preferably, the height H of the light guide is less than 10 mm. Most preferably, the height H of the light guide is less than 8 mm. The width W of the light guide is preferably less than 40 mm. More preferably, the width W of the light guide is less than 20 mm. Most preferably, the width W of the light guide is less than 10 mm. The length L of the light guide is preferably greater than 500 mm. More preferably, the length L of the light guide is greater than 800 mm. Most preferably, the length L of the light guide is greater than 1000 mm. For example, the light guide has a length L of 1000 mm, a width W of 10 mm, and a height H of 5 mm. The light guide may be made of a polymeric material, such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), silicone material, etc.

In one embodiment, the light guide is arranged on top of the light emitting area of more than 90% of the plurality of first light sources. The light decoupling portions of the light guide are interleaved with respect to the first light sources. The effect obtained is improved efficiency. The reason is that less first light is redirected by the plurality of light decoupling parts. Redirected light results in reflection losses or reduced light utilization. The first area of the light decoupling portions of the light guide may not overlap with the second area covered by the plurality of first light sources. The effect obtained is a further improved efficiency. No, or almost no, first light is coupled into the light guide through the light decoupling portions. The reason is that there is no overlap between the light decoupling portions of the light guide and the plurality of first light sources.

In one embodiment, the light guide comprises a central portion and a peripheral portion. The refractive index of the central part is at least 1.02 times greater than the refractive index of the peripheral part. More preferably, the refractive index of the central part is at least 1.05 times greater than the refractive index of the peripheral part. Most preferably, the refractive index of the central part is at least 1.1 times greater than the refractive index of the peripheral part. The effect obtained is that the peripheral part causes the light to be confined in the central part of the light guide by total internal reflection at the boundary between the two. The central part is preferably a core and the peripheral part is preferably a liner. Optionally, the peripheral part or liner may comprise a jacket. A jacket is a material that at least partially encapsulates the peripheral part or coating and thus protects it from, for example, damage, such as scratches. The light guide may be an optical fiber.

In one embodiment, the plurality of first light sources are spaced at a pitch of at least 5 mm. More preferably, the plurality of first light sources are spaced at a pitch of at least 7 mm. Most preferably, the plurality of first light sources are spaced at a pitch of at least 8 mm. The effect obtained is a reduction in cost. The reason is that the number of first light sources can be reduced, resulting in a lower cost in terms of light sources, but also in terms of assembly cost.

In one embodiment, at least one transparent carrier is disposed between the plurality of first light sources and the light guide. The light guide is attached to or embedded in the at least partially transparent carrier. The effect obtained is that it improves the security and input protection of the lighting module. For example, the LEDs and light guide may be encapsulated by the transparent carrier. In one example, the LEDs are encapsulated by the transparent carrier and the light guide is connected to the transparent carrier, that is, the light guide is not completely encapsulated by the transparent carrier. The transparent carrier is preferably a flexible material. For example, the transparent carrier is a type of rubber material, such as a silicone material. The transparent carrier preferably has a transmission of at least 80%. More preferably, the transparent carrier has a transmission of at least 85%. Most preferably, the transparent carrier has a transmission of at least 90%. In an alternative embodiment, instead of a transparent carrier, the light guide may be surrounded by air. A light guide surrounded by air prevents light coupling from the first light in the light guide as much as possible, while providing the desired total internal reflection (TIR) of the second light in the light guide.

The present invention discloses a lighting system according to claim 12.

In one embodiment, a lighting system comprises said lighting module. The lighting system further comprises a control unit that is electrically connected to the plurality of first light sources and the at least one second light source to separately control the amount of first light and second light. The effect obtained is that the lighting system provides high quality light at both high and low intensities. The lighting system can provide in a first mode, that is, first period of time, high quality light at high intensity, providing only the first light. The lighting system can provide in a second mode, that is, second period of time, high quality light at low intensity, providing only the second light. The lighting system may also provide in a first mode, that is, first period of time, high quality light at high intensity, providing both the first light and the second light.

In one embodiment, the lighting system further comprises at least one sensor configured to detect ambient light intensity, color, and/or color temperature in a region surrounding the lighting system. The control unit is communicatively coupled to at least the at least one sensor, the plurality of first light sources and the at least one second light source. The control unit is configured to control the operation of the plurality of first light sources and the at least one second light source based on information relating to the light intensity, color and color temperature in the region obtained by the at least one sensor to control the intensity of the lighting system based on the ambient lighting. The effect obtained is that the lighting system provides high quality light at high intensities or high quality light at low intensities depending on the ambient light conditions. For example, in the afternoon or evening, when the sensor detects a low light intensity, the lighting system provides high-quality light at low intensity, while in the morning or evening, when the sensor detects a low intensity High light, the lighting system provides high quality light at high intensity.

In one embodiment, the lighting system further comprises a clock module for providing the time of day. The control unit is communicatively coupled to the clock module, the plurality of first light sources and the at least one second light source. The control unit is configured to control the operation of the plurality of first light sources and the at least one second light source based on information regarding the time of day. The effect obtained is that the lighting system provides high quality light at high intensities or high quality light at low intensities depending on the time of day. For example, at 11:00 p.m., the lighting system provides high-quality light at low intensity, while at 6:00 p.m., the lighting system provides high-quality light at high intensity.

The present invention discloses a lighting method according to independent claim 14.

In one embodiment, a lighting method uses the lighting system. The lighting method consists of changing, by means of the control unit, the lighting module between a first state in which the plurality of first light sources emit the first light and the at least one second light source emits or does not emit the second light, and a second state in which the plurality of the first light sources do not emit the first light and the at least one second light source emits the second light. The effect obtained is that an easily controllable lighting system is obtained. For example, you can easily select between high quality light at high intensities or high quality light at low intensities. The change by means of the control unit of the lighting module, between a first state in which the plurality of first light sources emit the first light and the at least one second light source emits or does not emit the second light, and a second state in which the plurality of the first light sources do not emit the first light and the at least one second light source emits the second light, may depend on the sensor and/or the clock module.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which:

Figures 1a to 1c schematically represent a cross section of the lighting module along the longitudinal direction in the XY plane according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 2a to 2c schematically represent an exploded view of a cross section of the lighting module according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 3a to 3b schematically represent an exploded view of a cross section of the lighting module according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 4a to 4b schematically represent an exploded view of a cross section of the lighting module according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 5 schematically represents a cross section of the lighting system along the longitudinal direction in the XY plane according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 6 schematically represents a flow chart of the lighting method using the lighting system.

Schematic drawings are not necessarily to scale.

The same features having the same function are referred to in different figures with the same references.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Figures 1a to 1c schematically represent a cross section of the lighting module 100 along the longitudinal direction in the XY plane according to an embodiment of the present invention. As depicted in Figure 1a, the lighting module 100 comprises at least one second light source 103 that is configured to emit a second light 104. As depicted in Figure 1b, the lighting module 100 comprises a plurality of first light sources 101 that are configured to emit a first light 102 in a first predetermined direction. As depicted in Figure 1c, the lighting module 100 further comprises a light guide 105 comprising at least one light coupling portion 106 for coupling at least part of the second light 104 into the light guide 105, and a plurality of light decoupling parts 107 for decoupling at least part of the second light 104 from the light guide 105. The light guide 105 is arranged to guide the second light 104, which is coupled to the light guide 105 in the at least one light coupling part 106, through the total internal reflection 108 to the plurality of light decoupling parts 107 to generate decoupled light in a second predetermined direction. The light guide 105 is mechanically coupled and extends along the plurality of first light sources 101. For example, the light guide 105 is mechanically coupled to the plurality of first light sources 101 through a transparent carrier. 122. The transparent carrier 122 may have a lower refractive index to obtain a total internal reflection 108 of the second light 104 in the light guide 105 and avoid light coupling to the first light 102 in the guide as much as possible. of light 105. In an alternative embodiment, element 122 is an empty space filled with air. In case the element 122 is an empty space filled with air, the environment of the light guide 105 is air and has a refractive index of 1 and, therefore, avoids the coupling of light from the first light 102 in the light guide 105, while providing a desired total internal reflection 108 of the second light 104 in the light guide 105. In one example, the light guide 105 is mechanically coupled to the plurality of first sources of light 101 through one or more clamps, brackets, pins or any other mechanical means. The light decoupling portions 107 cover a larger first area 109 than a second area 110 covered by the plurality of first light sources 101. A total luminous flux generated by the at least one second light source 103 is less than a total luminous generated by the plurality of the first light sources 101. The first predetermined direction and the second predetermined direction at least partially overlap. The first default address and the second default address may completely overlap. The plurality of first light sources 101 may be solid state light sources. The at least one second light source 103 may be a solid state light source. For example, the solid state light source(s) may be light emitting diodes (LEDs) or laser diodes. The plurality of first light sources 101 may be carried by a first carrier 101'. The at least one second light source may be carried by a second carrier 103'. The light guide 105 may be made of an inorganic material. For example, the light guide may be made of glass. The light guide 105 may be made of a polymeric material. For example, the light guide 105 may be made of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) or polycarbonate (PC). The light guide 105 may also be made of a hybrid material, that is, of an inorganic material and a polymeric material. For example, the light guide 105 may be made of glass and covered by a layer of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or polycarbonate (PC). The plurality of light decoupling parts 107 may be made of a light scattering material dispersed in a matrix material. For example, BaSO4, TiO2 and/or Al2O3 particles can be dispersed in a type of silicone material, such as, for example, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The light decoupling portions 107 may also be a surface relief pattern within or on the light guide 105. The at least one light coupling portion 106 may be a first end of an elongated light guide 105. The Illumination 100 may also comprise more than one light coupling portion 106, such as, for example, two light coupling portions 106. For example, a first light coupling portion may be located at the first end of the light guide. light 105 and the second light coupling portion 106 may be located at a second end of the light guide 105. The second end of the light guide 105 may be positioned opposite the first end of the light guide 105. The Light coupling 106 may be positioned planar and parallel with respect to the at least one second light source 103. Light coupling portion 106 may also be shaped. For example, the light coupling portion 106 may be convex to improve light coupling. The light guide 105 can be coupled to the plurality of first light sources 101 through a mechanical means. Preferably, an air gap exists between the first light sources 101 and the light guide 105 to prevent light coupling from the first light 102 to the light guide 105 as much as possible, while providing total internal reflection. desired 108 of the second light 104 in the light guide 105. It is also possible to use a low refractive index material that also functions as a coating for the light guide 105 and avoids the coupling of light to the first as much as possible. light 102 in the light guide 105. The plurality of first light sources 101 can be placed in a first carrier 101' and/or the at least one second light source 103 can be placed in a second carrier 103'. The mechanical means may also be, for example, a clamp, a pin or any other means for mechanically coupling the light guide 105 to the plurality of the first light sources 101. The light decoupling portions 107 cover a further first area. larger 109 than a second area 110 covered by the plurality of first light sources 101. For example, the plurality of first light sources 101 may comprise one hundred LEDs. Each of the LEDs can have a light output surface area of one square millimeter. The area 110 covered by the plurality of first light sources 101 is therefore 100 square millimeters. The light decoupling parts 107 may comprise five hundred light decoupling parts. Each light decoupling part may have a surface area of two square millimeters. The area 109 covered by the light decoupling parts 107 is therefore 1000 square millimeters.

As shown in Figures 1a-c, the plurality of first light sources 101 may be separated by a pitch P. Preferably, the plurality of first light sources 101 may be separated by a pitch P of at least 5 mm. More preferably, the plurality of first light sources 101 may be separated by a pitch P of at least 7 mm. Most preferably, the plurality of first light sources 101 may be separated by a pitch P of at least 8 mm. For example, the plurality of first light sources 101 may be separated by a pitch P of 10 mm.

Figures 2a-2c schematically represent an exploded view of a cross section of the lighting module 100, according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2a represents a first exploded view EV1 of a cross section of the lighting module 100 along the longitudinal direction in the XY plane. The at least one second light source 103 may be positioned on a second carrier 103'. The light guide 105 may be located at a first distance D1 near the at least one second light source 103. The light guide 105 may be coupled to the at least one second light source 103 through a mechanical means. The mechanical means may be a transparent carrier 122. Figure 2b represents a second exploded view EV2 of a cross section of the lighting module 100 along the longitudinal direction in the XY plane. The plurality of first light sources 101 may be placed on a first carrier 101'. The light guide 105 is located near the plurality of first light sources 101. The light guide 105 comprises the plurality of light decoupling parts 107. The light guide 105 can be coupled to the plurality of first light sources 101 through a mechanical means. The mechanical means may be a transparent carrier 122. Figure 2c represents the second exploded view EV2 of a cross section of the lighting module 100 along the longitudinal direction in the YZ plane. The plurality of first light sources 101 are positioned on a first carrier 101'. The light guide 105 is located near the plurality of first light sources 101. The light guide 105 comprises the plurality of light decoupling parts 107. The light guide 105 can be coupled to the plurality of first light sources 101 through a mechanical means. The mechanical means may be a transparent carrier 122. As depicted in Figure 2a-c, the lighting module 100 may satisfy the equation in which the first term I2/E2 is greater than the second term I1/E1. 11 is the number of coupled photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources and coupled into the light guide 111. 12 is the number of coupled photons emitted by the at least one second light source and coupled into the light guide 112. E1 is the number of photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources 113. E2 is the number of photons emitted by the at least one second light source 114. The number of coupled photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources 111 is light guided in the light guide 105 by total internal reflection 108. The number of coupled photons emitted by the at least one second light source 112 is light guided in the light guide 105 by total internal reflection 108. Light that does not hit the light guide 105 does not couple into the light guide 105. Some of the light hitting the light guide 105 may not couple into the light guide 105 because it hits the boundary of the medium with an angle less than a particular critical angle with respect to the normal of the surface. Only light incident on the light guide 105 and striking the boundary of the medium at an angle greater than a particular critical angle with respect to the surface normal is coupled into the light guide 105. The first carrier 101' and the second carrier 103' are preferably reflective. The reflectivity of the first carrier 101' and/or the second carrier 103' is preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, most preferably at least 90%.

As depicted in Figure 2a-c, the ratio of the first term I2/E2 to the second term I1/E1 may be at least 3. More preferably, the ratio of the first term I2/E2 to the second term I1/ E1 may be at least 5. More preferably, the ratio of the first term I2/E2 to the second term I1/E1 may be at least 7.

As shown in Figure 2a-c, the plurality of first light sources 101 are arranged to emit the first light in a beam 115. The light guide 105 is arranged in the path of the beam 115. The second term I1 / E1 it can be 0.1 or less. More preferably, the second term I1/E1 may be 0.07 or less. More preferably, the second term I1/E1 may be 0.05 or less.

As depicted in Figure 2a-c, the Ei1:E1 ratio may be 80% or less. Ei1 is the number of photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources and incident on the light guide 116. E1 is the number of photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources 113. More preferably, the ratio Ei1:E1 is 60% or less. Most preferably, the Ei1:E1 ratio is 40% or less.

As shown in Figure 2a-c, the second distance D2 between the light guide 105 and the plurality of first light sources 101 may be in the range of 1 to 20 mm. More preferably, the second distance D2 between the light guide 105 and the plurality of first light sources 101 may be in the range of 1 to 15 mm. Most preferably, the second distance D2 between the light guide 105 and the plurality of first light sources 101 may be in the range of 1 to 10 mm. For example, the second distance D2 between the light guide 105 and the plurality of first light sources 101 is 2 mm. The first distance D1 between the light guide 105 and the at least one second light source 103 may be in the range of 0.1 to 20 mm. More preferably, the first distance D1 between the light guide 105 and the at least one second source 103 may be in the range of 0.1 to 15 mm. Most preferably, the first distance D1 between the light guide 105 and the at least one second light source 103 may be in the range of 0.1 to 10 mm. For example, the first distance D2 between the light guide 105 and the at least one second light source 103 is 0.2 mm.

As shown in Figure 1a-c and Figure 2a-c, the light guide 105 is elongated and has a length L, a width W and a height H. Preferably, the length L can be at least 30 times the width W and the length L may be at least 50 times the height H. More preferably, the length L may be at least 60 times the width W and the length L may be at least 70 times the height H. Most preferably, the length L may be at least 90 times the width W and the length L may be at least 90 times the height H. The height H of the light guide 105 may preferably be less than 20 mm. More preferably, the height H of the light guide 105 may be less than 10 mm. Most preferably, the height H of the light guide 105 may be less than 8 mm. The width W of the light guide 105 may preferably be less than 40 mm. More preferably, the width W of the light guide 105 may be less than 20 mm. Most preferably, the width W of the light guide 105 may be less than 10 mm. The length L of the light guide 105 may preferably be more than 500 mm. More preferably, the length L of the light guide 105 may be more than 800 mm. Most preferably, the length L of the light guide 105 may be more than 1000 mm. For example, the light guide 105 has a length L of 1000 mm, a width W of 10 mm, and a height H of 5 mm. The light guide 105 may be made of a polymeric material, such as polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), silicone material, etc.

As depicted in Figure 1a-c and Figure 2b, the light guide 105 may be positioned on top of the light emitting area of more than 90% of the plurality of first light sources 101. The decoupling portions of light 107 of the light guide 105 are interleaved with respect to the first light sources 101. The first area 109 of the light decoupling portions 107 of the light guide 105 may not overlap with the second area 110 covered by the plurality of early light sources 101.

Figures 3a-3b schematically represent an exploded view of a cross section of the lighting module 100, according to another embodiment herein. Figure 3a represents a second exploded view EV2 of a cross section of the lighting module 100 in the YZ plane. Figure 3b represents a second exploded view EV2 of a cross section of the lighting module 100 along the longitudinal direction in the XY plane. As shown in Figure 3a-3b, the light guide 105 comprises a central portion 120 and a peripheral portion 121. The light guide 105 is positioned above the plurality of first light sources 101. The first light sources They can be carried by a first carrier 101'. The refractive index of the central portion 120 may be at least 1.02 times greater than the refractive index of the peripheral portion 121. More preferably, the refractive index of the central portion 120 may be at least 1.05 times greater than the refractive index of the peripheral part 121. Most preferably, the refractive index of the central part 120 can be at least 1.1 times greater than the refractive index of the peripheral part 121. The central part 120 can be a core and the peripheral portion 121 may be a coating. Optionally, the peripheral portion 121 may comprise a sleeve. A jacket is a material that at least partially encapsulates the peripheral portion 121 and thus protects it from, for example, damage, such as scratches. The light guide 105 may be an optical fiber. The light guide 105 may be flexible. For example, the central portion 120 may be made of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) or polystyrene (PS) with refractive indices of 1.49 and 1.59, respectively. For example, the peripheral portion 121 may be made of a silicone resin with a refractive index of 1.46.

Figures 4a-4b schematically represent an exploded view of a cross section of the lighting module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4a represents a second exploded view EV2 of a cross section of the lighting module 100 in the YZ plane. Figure 4b represents a second exploded view EV2 of a cross section of the lighting module 100 along the longitudinal direction in the XY plane. The lighting module 100 comprises a transparent carrier 122 that may be disposed between the plurality of first light sources 101 and the light guide 105. As shown in Figure 4a, the light guide 105 is connected to the transparent carrier 122. As shown in Figure 4b, the light guide 105 is embedded in the transparent carrier. For example, the plurality of first light sources 101 and the light guide 105 may be encapsulated by the transparent carrier 122. In one example, the plurality of first light sources 101 are encapsulated by the transparent carrier 122 and the light guide. 105 is connected to the transparent carrier 122, that is, the light guide 105 is not completely encapsulated by the transparent carrier 122. The transparent carrier 122 is preferably a flexible material. For example, the transparent carrier 122 is a type of rubber material, such as a silicone material. The transparent carrier 122 may preferably have a transmission of at least 80%. More preferably, the transparent carrier 122 may have a transmission of at least 85%. Most preferably, the transparent carrier 122 may have a transmission of at least the Figure 5 schematically represents a cross section of the lighting system 200 along the longitudinal direction in the XY plane in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The lighting system 200 comprises said lighting module 100. The lighting system 200 further comprises a control unit 201 that is electrically connected to the plurality of first light sources 101 and the at least one second light source 103 for controlling by separated the amount of first light 102 and second light 104. The lighting system 200 can provide in a first mode, that is, first period of time, high quality light at high intensity, providing only the first light 102. The lighting system lighting may provide in a second mode, i.e., second time period, high quality light at low intensity, providing only the second light 104. The lighting system may also provide in a first mode, i.e., first time period , high quality light at high intensity, providing both the first light 102 and the second light 104.

The lighting system 200 may further comprise at least one sensor 202 configured to detect ambient light intensity, color and/or color temperature in a region surrounding the lighting system 200. The control unit 201 is communicatively coupled with at least the at least one sensor 202, the plurality of first light sources 101 and the at least one second light source 103. The control unit 201 is configured to control the operation of the plurality of first light sources 101 and the at least a second light source 103 based on the information relating to the light intensity, color and color temperature in the region obtained by the at least one sensor 202 to control the intensity of the lighting system 200 based on ambient lighting. The lighting system 200 provides high quality light at high intensities or high quality light at low intensities depending on ambient light conditions. For example, in the afternoon or at night, when the sensor 202 detects a low light intensity, the lighting system 200 provides high quality light at low intensity, while in the morning or afternoon, when the sensor 202 detects high light intensity, the 200 lighting system provides high quality light at high intensity.

The lighting system 200 may further comprise a clock module 204 to provide the time of day. The control unit 201 is communicatively coupled to the clock module 204, the plurality of first light sources 101 and the at least one second light source 103. The control unit 201 is configured to control the operation of the plurality of first sources light source 101 and at least one second light source 103 depending on the information related to the time of day. For example, at 11:00 p.m., lighting system 200 provides high-quality light at low intensity, while at 6:00 p.m., lighting system 200 provides high-quality light at high intensity. A user interface 204 can be used to add data to the lighting system 300 that can be used, for example, to compare a measured value with respect to an input value V, i.e., added data.

Figure 6 schematically represents a flow chart of the lighting method 300 using the lighting system 200. The lighting method 300 uses the lighting system 200. The lighting method 300 consists of changing by means of the control unit 201 the lighting system 200 between a first state in which the plurality of first light sources 101 emit the first light 102 and the at least one second light source 103 emits or does not emit the second light 104, and a second state in which the plurality of the first light sources 101 do not emit the first light 102 and the at least one second light source 103 emits the second light 104. For example, it can be easily selected between high quality light at high intensities or high quality light at low intensities. The change by means of the control unit 201 of the lighting system 200, between a first state in which the plurality of first light sources 101 emit the first light 102 and the at least one second light source 103 emits or does not emit the second light 104, and a second state in which the plurality of the first light sources 101 do not emit the first light 102 and the at least one second light source 103 emits the second light 104, may depend on the input of the sensor 202 and/or the clock module 203. As shown in Figure 6, in a first stage, the lighting method 300 comprises the following steps: (i) The controller 201 receives R data from the light sensor 202 and/ or the clock module 203. (ii) The lighting system 200 is established S in a first state where only data from the clock module 203 is used, in a second state where only data from the sensor 202 is used or a third state where data from both the clock module 203 and the sensor 202 are used. (iii) The data from the clock module 203, the data from the sensor 202 or the data from both the clock module 203 and the Sensor 202 compares C with at least the first V1x values. The first values can be programmed into the lighting system 200 using the user interface 204. In case the data from the clock module 203, the data from the sensor 202, or the data from both the clock module 203 and the data of the sensor 202 comply with the first V1x values, the at least one second light source 103 emits the second light 104. (iv) In case the measured data does not comply with the first V1x values, the data from the clock module 203, the data from the sensor 202 or the data from both the clock module 203 and the sensor 202 are compared C to at least a few seconds V2x values. In case the measured data meets the second V2x values, the plurality of first light sources 101 emits the first light 102. In case the measured data does not meet the second V2x values, the plurality of first light sources 101 emit the first light 102 and the at least one second light source 103 emits a second light 104.

The plurality of first light sources 101 and the at least one second light source 103 may be solid state light emitters. Examples of solid-state light emitters are light-emitting diodes (LEDs), OLED organic light-emitting diodes or, for example, laser diodes. Solid-state light emitters are relatively inexpensive, have relatively large efficiency and long service life. The LED light source may be a phosphor LED (an LED comprising a luminescent material) or a colored LED (an LED not comprising any luminescent material). The luminescent material is arranged to convert at least part of the light emitted by the LED into light of a longer wavelength. The luminescent material may be an organic phosphor, an inorganic phosphor, and/or a quantum dot-based material.

The lighting module 100 can be configured to provide white light. The term white light herein is known to the person skilled in the art and refers to white light having a correlated color temperature (CCT) between about 2,000 K and 20,000 K. In one embodiment, the CCT is between 2,500 K. and 10,000 K. Typically, for general lighting, the CCT is in the range of about 2700 K to 6500 K. Preferably, it refers to white light having a color point within about 15, 10 or 5 SDCM (standard deviation of color matching) of the BBL (black body locus). Preferably, it refers to white light having a color rendering index (CRI) of at least 70 to 75, for general lighting of at least 80 to 85.

The term "substantially" herein, such as in "substantially all light" or "substantially consists", will be understood by the person skilled in the art. The term "substantially" may also include embodiments with "entirely", "completely", "all", etc. Therefore, in embodiments, the adjective substantially may also be deleted. Where applicable, the term "substantially" may also refer to 90% or more, such as 95% or more, especially 99% or more, even more especially 99.5% or more, including 100%. The term "comprises" also includes embodiments in which the term "comprises" means "consists of." The term "and/or" refers especially to one or more of the elements mentioned before and after "and/or". For example, a phrase "article 1 and/or article 2" and similar phrases may relate to one or more of articles 1 and 2. The term "comprising" may refer in one embodiment to "consisting of", but may also refer in another embodiment to "containing at least the defined species and optionally one or more other species."

Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and claims are used to distinguish between similar elements and not necessarily to describe a sequential or chronological order. It should be understood that the terms used are interchangeable in appropriate circumstances and that embodiments of the invention described herein may operate in sequences other than those described or illustrated herein.

The devices described herein are described, among others, during their operation. As will be apparent to the person skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to methods of operation or devices in operation.

It should be noted that the aforementioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference sign placed in parentheses will not be construed as limiting the claim. The use of the verb "understand" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or stages other than those stated in a claim. The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The invention can be implemented by means of hardware composed of several different elements, and by means of a properly programmed computer. In the device claim that lists several means, several of these means can be realized by the same hardware element. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be exploited.

The invention further applies to a device comprising one or more of the characterization aspects described in the description and/or shown in the accompanying drawings. The invention further relates to a method or process comprising one or more of the characterization aspects described in the description and/or shown in the attached claims.

The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined to provide additional advantages. Furthermore, the person skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be combined, and that more than two embodiments can also be combined. In addition, some of the characteristics may form the basis for one or more divisional applications.

Claims (14)

1. A lighting module (100) comprising: - a plurality of first light sources (101) configured to emit a first light (102) in a first predetermined direction, - at least one second light source (103) configured to emit a second light (104), - a light guide (105) comprising at least one light coupling part (106) for coupling at least a part of the second light (104) in the light guide (105), a plurality of decoupling parts light (107) to decouple at least part of the second light (104) from the light guide (105), - wherein the light guide (105) is arranged to guide the second light (104) coupled in the light guide (105) in the at least one light coupling part (106) through total internal reflection ( 108) to the plurality of light decoupling parts (107) to generate decoupled light in a second predetermined direction, - wherein the light guide (105) is mechanically coupled and extends along the plurality of first light sources. light (101), - wherein the light decoupling portions (107) extend along the plurality of first light sources (101) and cover a first area larger (109) than a second area (110) covered by the plurality of first light sources (101), and - wherein a total luminous flux generated by the at least one second light source (103) is less than a total luminous flux generated by the plurality of the first light sources (101), - wherein the first predetermined address and the second predetermined address at least partially overlap, and - where the ratio Ei1: E1 is 80% or less, where Ei1 is the number of photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources and incident on the light guide (116), and E1 is the number of photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources (113); and - wherein the plurality of first light sources (101) is arranged to emit the first light (102) in the first predetermined direction on a surface opposite the surface of the light guide to decouple at least part of the second light from the light guide. 2. A lighting module (100), according to claim 1, wherein the first term I2 / E2 is greater than the second term I1 / E1, where I1 is the number of coupled photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources. light and that couples in the light guide (111), 12 is the number of coupled photons emitted by the at least one second light source and that couples in the light guide (112), E1 is the number of photons emitted by the plurality of first light sources (113) and E2 is the number of photons emitted by the at least one second light source (114). 3. A lighting module (100), according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ratio of the first term 12 / E2 with respect to the second term I1 / E1 is at least 3. 4. A lighting module (100), according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of first light sources (101) is arranged to emit the first light (102) in a beam (115), wherein the light guide (105) is arranged in the beam path (115), and where the second term I1 / E1 is 0.1 or less. 5. A lighting module (100), according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second distance (D2) between the light guide (105) and the plurality of first light sources (103) is in the range of 1 to 20mm. 6. A lighting module (100), according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light guide (105) is elongated and has a length (L), a width (W) and a height (H), in where the length (L) is at least 30 times the width (W) and the length (L) is at least 50 times the height (H). 7. A lighting module (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light guide (105) is arranged on top of the light emission area (123) of more than 90% of the plurality. of first light sources (101), wherein the light decoupling portions (107) of the light guide (105) are interleaved with respect to the first light sources (110). 8. A lighting module (100), according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light guide (105) comprises a central part (120) and a peripheral part (121), the refractive index of the central part (120) is at least 1.02 times greater than the refractive index of the peripheral part (121). 9. A lighting module (100), according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of first light sources (101) are separated by a step (P) of at least 5 mm. 10. A lighting module (100), according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one transparent carrier (122) disposed between the plurality of first light sources and the light guide, wherein the light guide ( 105) is attached or embedded in the at least partially transparent carrier (122). 11. A lighting system (200) comprising said lighting module (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a control unit (201) electrically connected to the plurality of first light sources ( 101) and the at least one second light source (103) to separately control the amount of first light (102) and second light (104). 12. A lighting system (200) comprising said lighting module (100), according to claim 11, further comprising at least one sensor (202) configured to detect ambient light intensity, color and/or temperature of color in a region surrounding the lighting system (200), and wherein the control unit (201) is communicatively coupled to at least one sensor (202), the plurality of first light sources (101) and the at least one second light source (103), the control unit (201) being configured to control the operation of the plurality of first light sources (101) and the at least one second light source (103) as a function of the information relating to the intensity of light, color and color temperature in the region obtained by the at least one sensor (202) to control the intensity of the lighting system (200) depending on the ambient lighting. 13. A lighting system (200) comprising said lighting module (100), according to claims 11 or 12, further comprising a clock module (203) for providing the time of day and the control unit (201) communicatively coupled to the clock module (203), the plurality of first light sources (101) and the at least one second light source (103), the control unit (201) being configured to control the operation of the plurality of first light sources (101) and at least one second light source (103) depending on the information related to the time of day. 14. A lighting method (300) using the lighting system (200), according to any one of claims 11 to 13, which comprises changing, by means of the control unit (201), the lighting module (100). ) between a first state in which the plurality of first light sources (101) emit the first light (102) and the at least one second light source (103) emits or does not emit the second light (104), and a second state in which the plurality of the first light sources (101) do not emit the first light (102) and the at least one second light source emits the second light (104).